BMW Z4

The Z4 is a premium two-seat convertible. It’s the smallest drop-top in BMW’s lineup, measuring some 17 inches shorter than the next larger model, the four-seat 4 Series. The Z4 shares a platform and some components with the Toyota GR Supra, which BMW builds in partnership with the Japanese automaker.

BMW offers the Z4 in a variety of trims, which correspond to engine size. At the lower end of the range is the entry-level sDrive28i (2012-2016), which sports a turbocharged four-cylinder making 240 horsepower. With the debut of the third-generation Z4 in 2019, the four-pot was upgraded to 255 horses and rebadged as the sDrive30i. At the higher end, the Z4 employs a turbocharged inline-six, which makes 300 hp in the sDrive35i (2009-2016) and 35 more in the performance-oriented sDrive35is (2011-2016). In 2020, the six-cylinder received a bump to 382 ponies and was renamed the sDrive M40i.

While BMW sold the Z4 with a six-speed manual gearbox through the 2016 model year, most examples feature an automatic transmission. A quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual came standard on most six-cylinder Z4s (sDrive35i, sDrive35is), but for the 2020 model year, it was replaced with a conventional eight-speed automatic on the M40i. Four-cylinder versions (sDrive28i, sDrive30i) with an automatic have utilized the eight-speed ‘box since 2012. Regardless of transmission, the Z4 is rear-drive only.

As a luxury roadster, the Z4 comes relatively well equipped with features, including a power-folding convertible roof. Desirable tech offerings such as Apple CarPlay and forward collision mitigation became standard equipment in 2019, which is also when BMW first brought adaptive cruise control to the options list. However, Android Auto lagged behind, becoming standard two years later.